US5785669A - Back supporting and exercising cushion - Google Patents

Back supporting and exercising cushion Download PDF

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US5785669A
US5785669A US08/421,501 US42150195A US5785669A US 5785669 A US5785669 A US 5785669A US 42150195 A US42150195 A US 42150195A US 5785669 A US5785669 A US 5785669A
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user
bladders
bladder
region
mid
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US08/421,501
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Richard I. Proctor
Robert E. Fuller
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    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C7/00Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
    • A47C7/36Support for the head or the back
    • A47C7/40Support for the head or the back for the back
    • A47C7/46Support for the head or the back for the back with special, e.g. adjustable, lumbar region support profile; "Ackerblom" profile chairs
    • A47C7/467Support for the head or the back for the back with special, e.g. adjustable, lumbar region support profile; "Ackerblom" profile chairs adjustable by fluid means
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C7/00Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
    • A47C7/36Support for the head or the back
    • A47C7/40Support for the head or the back for the back
    • A47C7/42Support for the head or the back for the back of detachable or loose type
    • A47C7/425Supplementary back-rests to be positioned on a back-rest or the like
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/40Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
    • A63B21/4027Specific exercise interfaces
    • A63B21/4037Exercise mats for personal use, with or without hand-grips or foot-grips, e.g. for Yoga or supine floor exercises
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/62Inflatable
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/02Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)
    • A63B23/0205Abdomen
    • A63B23/0211Abdomen moving torso with immobilized lower limbs
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63BAPPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/02Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)
    • A63B23/0233Muscles of the back, e.g. by an extension of the body against a resistance, reverse crunch

Definitions

  • the invention is generally in the field of medical apparatus, and in particular is directed to a back support device which both provides support for lumbar and thoracic regions of the back, continuously adjustable to the needs of the user, and also enables a simple therapeutic exercise by the user for improving the health and comfort of the spine.
  • Back rest cushions in many different forms have been notoriously well known. Cushions in many different shapes, sizes and constructions have been available for aiding in the comfort of the spine, while a user sits in a chair or automobile seat. A number of devices have included cushioning foam inserts and some have been inflatable. In fact, inflation devices have been included in automotive seats, controlled by small air pumps which are manually activated by the driver.
  • a pair of inflatable bladders are positioned at vertically spaced locations, connected through a flexible conduit. Air or other gas can be transferred from one pneumatic bladder to the other, via differential pressure exerted against one bladder as compared to the other.
  • the flexible fluid conduit between the bladders includes a flow restrictive orifice, providing a resistance to flow and regulating the rate at which the inflation can be transferred between the two bladders.
  • a suitable form of frame or connecting means holds the two pneumatic bladders at the desired spaced apart locations relative to one another, and an outer cover, preferably of fabric, encases the bladders and frame in a preferred embodiment.
  • the cushion and exercising device of the invention can be placed against the back support of a chair or automobile seat, and the relative inflations of the two bladders will adjust themselves to accommodate the user's posture.
  • the user's posture can be shifted repeatedly, and the back supporting device will "adjust" to the changing posture by shifting the air or other gas from one chamber to the other until an equilibrium of essentially equal pressure is achieved between the two chambers or bladders.
  • the back supporting device will "adjust" to the changing posture by shifting the air or other gas from one chamber to the other until an equilibrium of essentially equal pressure is achieved between the two chambers or bladders.
  • the user can deliberately exercise the lumbar/mid- to lower-thoracic region of the spine by alternating pushing back with the lumbar region and contracting the abdominal muscles, then pushing back with the thoracic spine and contracting the lower back, initiating a flexion/extension exercise for the spine.
  • the two chambers or bladders can be subjected to additional inflation or can be vented to reduce inflation, through a manual action by of the user releasing a valve.
  • a squeeze bulb type air pump is included in one preferred embodiment, connected into the flexible conduit between the two bladders, to allow the user to increase inflation of both bladders.
  • a valve is included, operable by a thumb or thumb and forefinger of the user while the squeeze bulb is held in the hand, to release air or gas from the bladders, thereby lowering pressure.
  • the flow resisting orifice in the conduit between the two bladders is adjustable. As on some mechanical exercising equipment, this adjustment permits the user to vary the resistance to lumbar and thoracic exercising movement, by varying the resistance to flow between the two chambers or bladders.
  • the back exercising and supporting device of the invention provides the important functions of cushioning the back in a comfortable and adjustable manner, one which continuously accommodates shifting seated posture of the user, while also permitting the user to carry out simple therapeutic exercises which help improve the strength and the comfort of the back and help prevent back pain.
  • FIG. 1 is a frontal view, showing a back supporting and exercising device in the form of a cushion with internal air bladders, in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a form of pneumatic insert which may be employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1, with a pair of air bladders formed between sheets of plastic material.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a foam pad, preferably used behind the insert of FIG. 2 and included in the assembly of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 is a partially cut away perspective view showing portions of the assembly of FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the cover of the device illustrated in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic detail view showing an arrangement for inflating the pneumatic bladders and for regulating flow between them.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic fragmentary view, partially cut away, illustrating the manner in which some of the inflating apparatus shown in FIG. 6 is incorporated in the back supporting device.
  • FIG. 1 shows a back support and exercising device generally identified as 10, including an external cover 12 which preferably has a desired degree of padding.
  • an external cover 12 which preferably has a desired degree of padding.
  • a pair of upper and lower pneumatic bladders 14 and 16 shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1. These bladders are connected to an air line or air lines shown at 18, leading to an inflating squeeze bulb 20 as part of a manual control discussed below relative to other drawing figures.
  • FIGS. 1, 2 and 6 show that the squeeze bulb (or other inflating means) may be connected into the air lines at a position between the upper and lower bladders 14 and 16.
  • the air line passes through the cover or casing preferably at a side opening discussed below.
  • An overlap line 21 extending through the length of the bottom of the back cushion device 10 as seen in FIG. 1 closes the cover at the bottom. This can be via cooperating hook-and-loop fastener material (Velcro) on flaps which overlap one another, snap fasteners, or other suitable forms of fasten
  • FIG. 2 shows the back side of an insert device 22 which comprises a bladder forming insert.
  • the upper and lower pneumatic bladders 14 and 16 are shown in this particular embodiment as formed by a pair of plastic (preferably vinyl) sheets, one sheet 24 of which is seen in FIG. 2, the other being underneath.
  • the laminated plastic sheets in this embodiment are heat-sealed around the bladders and preferably at all areas other than the bladders 14 and 16.
  • the spacing between bladder centers is such as to generally match the vertical distance between the lumbar and mid-thoracic to upper thoracic region of the human spine.
  • a pair of tubes or conduits 30 and 32 are each secured into one side of the laminated vinyl bladder forming insert 22.
  • the tubes 30 enter at the back side of the insert member 22, i.e. at the back of each bladder as shown, so as to maximize comfort to the user, whose spine rests against the front side of the device.
  • Such connections between a conduit and a heat-seal-formed bladder are well known, and usually involve some form of reinforcement device (shown at 34), which may itself be heat sealed to the vinyl material to form a rugged connection which will not develop leaks in normal use of the back support device 10.
  • FIG. 2 also shows that the upper and lower bladder tubes or conduits 30 and 32 come together via portions 30a and 32a to form the generally identified air conduit 18 shown in FIG. 1. This can be in the series type configuration shown, or other arrangements can be used.
  • FIG. 3 shows a foam pad 36 which preferably is of a size similar to that of the bladder forming insert 22. See also FIG. 4, showing the bladder forming insert 22 positioned against the foam pad 36.
  • the pad 36 may be about one-half inch thick and of a relatively dense but compressible foam so as to add some degree of comfort to the device 10 and to provide a backing for the bladders 14 and 16.
  • FIG. 3 shows that notches 38 and 40 are cut out of an edge of the foam pad, so as to accommodate the tubes 30 and 32 extending at the back of the plastic insert 22 when it is assembled against the pad.
  • FIG. 4 shows that the casing or cover 12, which may be formed of fabric, may have an edge piping 42 which encases a border piece of foam 44, extending at both sides and top of the cushion device.
  • One procedure for producing this piping, encased border foam is to form the envelope of the cover 12, then put foam into the cover 12, at least a frame of foam which will fill the areas to become the piping 42.
  • the cover may then be stitched along a stitch line 46, then the excess foam to the inside of the stitch line 46 may be cut away and discarded.
  • FIG. 4 The cutaway view of FIG. 4 is shown cut through the upper bladder 14.
  • the drawing reveals that the bladder 14 and the backing foam pad 36 are contained within the envelope of the casing 12, surrounded at left, right and top by the piping 42 and peripheral foam 44.
  • FIG. 5 shows the casing or outer covering 12.
  • the flap seam 21 (FIG. 1) is formed by overlapping a short width of the bottom edges 48 of the casing. The overlap may be about one-fourth inch to one-half inch.
  • the edges 48 which extend beyond the contained components sufficiently to form the overlap, are lapped over and, as noted above, may be secured together with hook and loop fastener material. This is true of the central portion of the casing's bottom edge, as well as at the piping 42.
  • FIG. 5 also shows openings 50 and 52 (dotted lines), 54 and 56 formed in the piping. These openings are for pneumatic conduits, as can be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2. Tubes leading from the bladder exit tubes 30 and 32 pass through the holes 50 and 52 toward the back side of the casing and enter a channel formed in the peripheral foam within the piping.
  • FIG. 7 shows, in cut away view, the bladder tube 30 passing through the opening 50 and lying in a channel 58 of the foam 44. The channel may be formed from the back side of the back cushion, by forming a slit 60 (dashed line in FIG. 5) in the back of the piping for access.
  • a valve 62 within the pneumatic conduit is positioned in the peripheral foam so as to be exposed through the hole 54 in the piping, shown in FIG. 5.
  • the valve has a manual grip 64 which is made accessible by the opening 54.
  • the side hole 56 provides an exit for the conduit 18 which leads to the squeeze bulb 20 as best seen in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6.
  • the conduit is shown oriented such that the squeeze ball extends upwardly, since the device 10 is intended for use on an automobile seat (as well as in other positions), and the bulb preferably extends out of the cushion on the user's right. In this way, the user can hold the bulb in hand and manipulate a screw valve 66 which may be positioned immediately at the end of the squeeze bulb.
  • the conduit and its various portions can be assembled via the openings 54 and 56, as needed. Also, it should be understood that the assembly details and means of access illustrated can be varied if desired.
  • the back supporting and exercising cushion device 10 may be placed in a chair or against the upright portion of a car seat.
  • the two bladders are at least partially inflated.
  • the user pushes backward with the lumbar region of the spine, this tends to push air out of the pneumatic bladder 16, up through the conduit and through the valve 62, inflating the upper pneumatic bladder 14.
  • the opposite is true if the user pushes back with the mid to upper thoracic region of the spine, thus pushing forward the lumbar region by inflation of the lower pneumatic bladder 16.
  • the valve 62 provides an orifice or restriction between the two air bladders 14 and 16.
  • the valve and its rotatable adjustment grip 64 enable the user to adjust the size of this orifice and thus the degree to which exchange of gas between the two bladders is restricted or free-flowing.
  • the valve 62 can actually be shut off completely in a preferred embodiment, which can be the position shown in FIG. 6. This will effectively lock the relative inflations of the two bladders.
  • the squeeze bulb 20 is used to provide inflation to the bladders.
  • the manually-operated valve 66 can be used to release inflation from the bladders, in the event the user wishes to provide a softer, less firm support or if the user wishes to deflate both bladders and flatten the device for storage.
  • a check valve can be included at the location of the valve 66, such that air can always be introduced into the bladders by squeezing the bulb, regardless of the setting of the manual valve 66; thus, the manual valve 66 is needed only to release air from the system.
  • the total amount of air in the bladders is an individual preference which can vary with the size or weight of the user or with settings that feel comfortable to the individual user, but sufficient air must be in the bladder to allow for exchange between bladders for exercise and accommodation of a user's changing positions.

Abstract

A back supporting and exercising cushion has upper and lower pneumatic chambers with an orifice or adjustable flow valve between the chambers for controlling shifting of air between the two chambers. With the back support device positioned in a chair or car seat, for example, the lower chamber is situated against the lumbar region of the back while the upper chamber presses against the mid-thoracic region. When the user shifts his posture, the chambers continually accommodate the changes by inflating one chamber while the pressure deflates air out of the other chamber. The ability to change posture frequently decreases fatigue in the low back while driving, for example, and provides neurological stimulation in the joints of the spine, which can help balance activities of the muscles in the back and decrease pain.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention is generally in the field of medical apparatus, and in particular is directed to a back support device which both provides support for lumbar and thoracic regions of the back, continuously adjustable to the needs of the user, and also enables a simple therapeutic exercise by the user for improving the health and comfort of the spine.
Back rest cushions in many different forms have been notoriously well known. Cushions in many different shapes, sizes and constructions have been available for aiding in the comfort of the spine, while a user sits in a chair or automobile seat. A number of devices have included cushioning foam inserts and some have been inflatable. In fact, inflation devices have been included in automotive seats, controlled by small air pumps which are manually activated by the driver.
One example of a back supporting car seat cushion is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,535,495.
There has been a need for a lumbar/thoracic back cushion which not only accommodates to the user's varying posture but which also enables the user to carry out simple exercises for both the lower back and the abdomen and which tends to improve the condition of the spine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a back support and exercise device in accordance with the present invention, a pair of inflatable bladders are positioned at vertically spaced locations, connected through a flexible conduit. Air or other gas can be transferred from one pneumatic bladder to the other, via differential pressure exerted against one bladder as compared to the other. The flexible fluid conduit between the bladders includes a flow restrictive orifice, providing a resistance to flow and regulating the rate at which the inflation can be transferred between the two bladders. A suitable form of frame or connecting means holds the two pneumatic bladders at the desired spaced apart locations relative to one another, and an outer cover, preferably of fabric, encases the bladders and frame in a preferred embodiment.
Thus, the cushion and exercising device of the invention can be placed against the back support of a chair or automobile seat, and the relative inflations of the two bladders will adjust themselves to accommodate the user's posture. The user's posture can be shifted repeatedly, and the back supporting device will "adjust" to the changing posture by shifting the air or other gas from one chamber to the other until an equilibrium of essentially equal pressure is achieved between the two chambers or bladders. In this way, if the user pushes back with greater pressure in, say, the mid-thoracic area of the spine, against the support, this will shift air from the upper bladder down into the lower bladder, and the user will feel a comforting support against the lumbar region, even though the lumbar has moved outwardly from the chair or seat.
Also, the user can deliberately exercise the lumbar/mid- to lower-thoracic region of the spine by alternating pushing back with the lumbar region and contracting the abdominal muscles, then pushing back with the thoracic spine and contracting the lower back, initiating a flexion/extension exercise for the spine. This constitutes a therapeutic exercise which can strengthen the lower back, improve posture and improve the general function of the spine which helps to decrease back pain.
In one preferred embodiment the two chambers or bladders can be subjected to additional inflation or can be vented to reduce inflation, through a manual action by of the user releasing a valve. A squeeze bulb type air pump is included in one preferred embodiment, connected into the flexible conduit between the two bladders, to allow the user to increase inflation of both bladders. In a preferred embodiment a valve is included, operable by a thumb or thumb and forefinger of the user while the squeeze bulb is held in the hand, to release air or gas from the bladders, thereby lowering pressure. Further, in a preferred embodiment the flow resisting orifice in the conduit between the two bladders is adjustable. As on some mechanical exercising equipment, this adjustment permits the user to vary the resistance to lumbar and thoracic exercising movement, by varying the resistance to flow between the two chambers or bladders.
It is therefore seen that the back exercising and supporting device of the invention provides the important functions of cushioning the back in a comfortable and adjustable manner, one which continuously accommodates shifting seated posture of the user, while also permitting the user to carry out simple therapeutic exercises which help improve the strength and the comfort of the back and help prevent back pain. These and other objects, advantages and features of the invention will be apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment, considered along with the accompanying drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a frontal view, showing a back supporting and exercising device in the form of a cushion with internal air bladders, in accordance with the invention.
FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a form of pneumatic insert which may be employed in the embodiment of FIG. 1, with a pair of air bladders formed between sheets of plastic material.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a foam pad, preferably used behind the insert of FIG. 2 and included in the assembly of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a partially cut away perspective view showing portions of the assembly of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the cover of the device illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 is a schematic detail view showing an arrangement for inflating the pneumatic bladders and for regulating flow between them.
FIG. 7 is a schematic fragmentary view, partially cut away, illustrating the manner in which some of the inflating apparatus shown in FIG. 6 is incorporated in the back supporting device.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 1 shows a back support and exercising device generally identified as 10, including an external cover 12 which preferably has a desired degree of padding. Within the cover 12 are a pair of upper and lower pneumatic bladders 14 and 16, shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1. These bladders are connected to an air line or air lines shown at 18, leading to an inflating squeeze bulb 20 as part of a manual control discussed below relative to other drawing figures. FIGS. 1, 2 and 6 show that the squeeze bulb (or other inflating means) may be connected into the air lines at a position between the upper and lower bladders 14 and 16. The air line passes through the cover or casing preferably at a side opening discussed below. An overlap line 21 extending through the length of the bottom of the back cushion device 10 as seen in FIG. 1 closes the cover at the bottom. This can be via cooperating hook-and-loop fastener material (Velcro) on flaps which overlap one another, snap fasteners, or other suitable forms of fastener.
FIG. 2 shows the back side of an insert device 22 which comprises a bladder forming insert. The upper and lower pneumatic bladders 14 and 16 are shown in this particular embodiment as formed by a pair of plastic (preferably vinyl) sheets, one sheet 24 of which is seen in FIG. 2, the other being underneath. The laminated plastic sheets in this embodiment are heat-sealed around the bladders and preferably at all areas other than the bladders 14 and 16. Thus the bladders are formed in spaced-apart relationship as shown. The spacing between bladder centers is such as to generally match the vertical distance between the lumbar and mid-thoracic to upper thoracic region of the human spine.
As seen in FIG. 2, a pair of tubes or conduits 30 and 32 are each secured into one side of the laminated vinyl bladder forming insert 22. Preferably the tubes 30 enter at the back side of the insert member 22, i.e. at the back of each bladder as shown, so as to maximize comfort to the user, whose spine rests against the front side of the device. Such connections between a conduit and a heat-seal-formed bladder are well known, and usually involve some form of reinforcement device (shown at 34), which may itself be heat sealed to the vinyl material to form a rugged connection which will not develop leaks in normal use of the back support device 10.
FIG. 2 also shows that the upper and lower bladder tubes or conduits 30 and 32 come together via portions 30a and 32a to form the generally identified air conduit 18 shown in FIG. 1. This can be in the series type configuration shown, or other arrangements can be used.
FIG. 3 shows a foam pad 36 which preferably is of a size similar to that of the bladder forming insert 22. See also FIG. 4, showing the bladder forming insert 22 positioned against the foam pad 36. The pad 36 may be about one-half inch thick and of a relatively dense but compressible foam so as to add some degree of comfort to the device 10 and to provide a backing for the bladders 14 and 16. FIG. 3 shows that notches 38 and 40 are cut out of an edge of the foam pad, so as to accommodate the tubes 30 and 32 extending at the back of the plastic insert 22 when it is assembled against the pad.
FIG. 4 shows that the casing or cover 12, which may be formed of fabric, may have an edge piping 42 which encases a border piece of foam 44, extending at both sides and top of the cushion device. One procedure for producing this piping, encased border foam is to form the envelope of the cover 12, then put foam into the cover 12, at least a frame of foam which will fill the areas to become the piping 42. The cover may then be stitched along a stitch line 46, then the excess foam to the inside of the stitch line 46 may be cut away and discarded.
The cutaway view of FIG. 4 is shown cut through the upper bladder 14. The drawing reveals that the bladder 14 and the backing foam pad 36 are contained within the envelope of the casing 12, surrounded at left, right and top by the piping 42 and peripheral foam 44.
FIG. 5 shows the casing or outer covering 12. At the bottom of the casing the flap seam 21 (FIG. 1) is formed by overlapping a short width of the bottom edges 48 of the casing. The overlap may be about one-fourth inch to one-half inch. With the bladder-forming insert member 22, the foam pad 36 and the peripheral foam 44 contained within the casing 12, the edges 48, which extend beyond the contained components sufficiently to form the overlap, are lapped over and, as noted above, may be secured together with hook and loop fastener material. This is true of the central portion of the casing's bottom edge, as well as at the piping 42.
FIG. 5 also shows openings 50 and 52 (dotted lines), 54 and 56 formed in the piping. These openings are for pneumatic conduits, as can be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2. Tubes leading from the bladder exit tubes 30 and 32 pass through the holes 50 and 52 toward the back side of the casing and enter a channel formed in the peripheral foam within the piping. FIG. 7 shows, in cut away view, the bladder tube 30 passing through the opening 50 and lying in a channel 58 of the foam 44. The channel may be formed from the back side of the back cushion, by forming a slit 60 (dashed line in FIG. 5) in the back of the piping for access.
As also shown in the drawings, including FIG. 6, a valve 62 within the pneumatic conduit is positioned in the peripheral foam so as to be exposed through the hole 54 in the piping, shown in FIG. 5. The valve has a manual grip 64 which is made accessible by the opening 54.
Farther down the piping, the side hole 56 provides an exit for the conduit 18 which leads to the squeeze bulb 20 as best seen in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6. The conduit is shown oriented such that the squeeze ball extends upwardly, since the device 10 is intended for use on an automobile seat (as well as in other positions), and the bulb preferably extends out of the cushion on the user's right. In this way, the user can hold the bulb in hand and manipulate a screw valve 66 which may be positioned immediately at the end of the squeeze bulb.
The conduit and its various portions can be assembled via the openings 54 and 56, as needed. Also, it should be understood that the assembly details and means of access illustrated can be varied if desired.
In operation, the back supporting and exercising cushion device 10 may be placed in a chair or against the upright portion of a car seat. The two bladders are at least partially inflated. When the user pushes backward with the lumbar region of the spine, this tends to push air out of the pneumatic bladder 16, up through the conduit and through the valve 62, inflating the upper pneumatic bladder 14. The opposite is true if the user pushes back with the mid to upper thoracic region of the spine, thus pushing forward the lumbar region by inflation of the lower pneumatic bladder 16.
The valve 62 provides an orifice or restriction between the two air bladders 14 and 16. The valve and its rotatable adjustment grip 64 enable the user to adjust the size of this orifice and thus the degree to which exchange of gas between the two bladders is restricted or free-flowing. The valve 62 can actually be shut off completely in a preferred embodiment, which can be the position shown in FIG. 6. This will effectively lock the relative inflations of the two bladders.
The squeeze bulb 20 is used to provide inflation to the bladders. The manually-operated valve 66 can be used to release inflation from the bladders, in the event the user wishes to provide a softer, less firm support or if the user wishes to deflate both bladders and flatten the device for storage. A check valve can be included at the location of the valve 66, such that air can always be introduced into the bladders by squeezing the bulb, regardless of the setting of the manual valve 66; thus, the manual valve 66 is needed only to release air from the system.
It should be understood that the total amount of air in the bladders is an individual preference which can vary with the size or weight of the user or with settings that feel comfortable to the individual user, but sufficient air must be in the bladder to allow for exchange between bladders for exercise and accommodation of a user's changing positions. The above described preferred embodiments are intended to illustrate the principles of the invention, but not to limit its scope. Other embodiments and variations to this preferred embodiment will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims (1)

We claim:
1. A method for exercising a user's back muscles and abdominal muscles comprising the steps of:
providing a back support device having upper and lower pneumatic bladders holding a gas, the upper and lower bladders being vertically separated a distance which approximates the vertical separation between the lumbar region and the mid- to upper-thoracic region of the user's spine, a fluid conduit connected in fluid communication with the upper and lower bladders to allow movement of gas between the bladders, and a housing means connecting the upper and lower bladders to form a unitary device;
placing the back support device against a seat back of a chair or seat;
contacting the back support device with the user's lower and upper back, from the lumbar spine region to the mid-thoracic spine region, the lower bladder being in contact with the user's lumbar spine region and the upper bladder being in contact with the user's mid-thoracic spine region;
pressing against the upper bladder with the user's mid-thoracic spine region and contracting the lower back muscles, until air has exchanged from the upper bladder into the lower bladder via the fluid conduit;
then pressing against the lower bladder with the user's lumbar spine region and contracting the abdominal muscles until air has exchanged from the lower bladder into the upper bladder via the fluid conduit; and
repeating in alternate fashion the last two steps until a desired amount of exercise is achieved.
US08/421,501 1995-04-12 1995-04-12 Back supporting and exercising cushion Expired - Fee Related US5785669A (en)

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US20010029344A1 (en) * 2000-03-01 2001-10-11 Blomberg Patrick J. Back support
US6327724B1 (en) 1999-02-02 2001-12-11 O.R. Comfort, Llc Inflatable positioning aids for operating room
US6357066B1 (en) * 2000-02-16 2002-03-19 Carla Terzian Pierce Patient support device
US6496994B1 (en) 2000-07-11 2002-12-24 Richard Omel Back support
US20030139695A1 (en) * 2001-12-21 2003-07-24 Oakworks, Inc. Support device
US20040211004A1 (en) * 2003-04-25 2004-10-28 Thompson Harlyn J. Lumbar back support device
US6820938B2 (en) 2003-03-10 2004-11-23 Biomedical Systems Corporation Tail bone cushion
US6848134B1 (en) * 2003-10-15 2005-02-01 David Schenck Backboard with removable pad
GB2406058A (en) * 2003-09-19 2005-03-23 Eirona Regina Gauci Air assisted mobility device
US20060016012A1 (en) * 2004-07-21 2006-01-26 Xiaoguang Liu Device and method to prevent deep vein thrombosis
US20060016003A1 (en) * 2004-07-20 2006-01-26 Goodway Industrial (H.K.) Ltd. Hybrid mattress
US7059678B1 (en) 2003-01-30 2006-06-13 Taylor Alan R Portable orthopedic support device
US7063677B1 (en) * 2003-10-27 2006-06-20 Daggett Jonathan G Pneumatic lumbar support and method for developing improved lower back range of motion
US20060150338A1 (en) * 2005-01-10 2006-07-13 Jackson Avery M Iii Therapeutic seat cushion
US20060217248A1 (en) * 2005-03-25 2006-09-28 Michele Diseati Exercise device and method of using same
US20070039102A1 (en) * 2003-04-25 2007-02-22 Thompson Harlyn J Lumbar back support device
WO2007048160A1 (en) * 2005-10-25 2007-05-03 Claudia Aigner Exercise device
WO2007105959A1 (en) * 2006-03-15 2007-09-20 Jurek Buchacz Chair with adjustable back support
US20070267905A1 (en) * 2006-02-03 2007-11-22 Sava Cvek Post-Assembly Tension Adjustment in Elastomeric Material Applications
US20080214372A1 (en) * 2005-07-19 2008-09-04 Karp Shaun A Methods and Apparatus for Testing Abdominal Strength and Exercising Abdominal Muscles
US7458918B1 (en) 2003-11-21 2008-12-02 Fitness Quest Inc. Back support for an exercise device
WO2010094072A1 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-08-26 Comfort Concepts Pty Limited Pneumatic seat cushion system
US20100257674A1 (en) * 2009-04-13 2010-10-14 Douglas Beall Method for positioning a human subject for radiological imaging, surgery or minimally invasive procedures using an inflatable contoured pillow
US20110224059A1 (en) * 2010-03-10 2011-09-15 William Joseph Crawley Stability exercise machine
US20130046343A1 (en) * 2011-08-16 2013-02-21 Julie Adamski Spinal Mobilization Device
US20150115678A1 (en) * 2013-10-25 2015-04-30 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Manual lumbar pump assembly
US9033416B1 (en) * 2013-09-28 2015-05-19 Paul John Vanderhorst Vertical back support health-enhancing device
US9125787B2 (en) 2011-09-30 2015-09-08 Covidien Lp Compression garment having a foam layer
US9402779B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2016-08-02 Covidien Lp Compression garment with perspiration relief
US9486654B1 (en) * 2008-11-12 2016-11-08 Buckingham Manufacturing Company, Inc. Reconfigurable, modular ergonomic sit harness or saddle
US20160361217A1 (en) * 2015-06-15 2016-12-15 Allen Medical Systems, Inc. Spine table positioner pad with pressure sensing and cooling features
US9649962B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2017-05-16 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Independent cushion extension and thigh support
US20170150819A1 (en) * 2015-11-30 2017-06-01 Seating Direct International Limited Cushion
US9707870B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2017-07-18 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flexible seatback system
US9707873B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2017-07-18 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flexible seatback system
US9756956B1 (en) * 2011-11-16 2017-09-12 Hannu Pekkinen Mattress with inflatable lumbar support
US9802512B1 (en) 2016-04-12 2017-10-31 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Torsion spring bushing
US9834166B1 (en) 2016-06-07 2017-12-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Side airbag energy management system
US9845029B1 (en) 2016-06-06 2017-12-19 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Passive conformal seat with hybrid air/liquid cells
US9849817B2 (en) 2016-03-16 2017-12-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Composite seat structure
US9849856B1 (en) 2016-06-07 2017-12-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Side airbag energy management system
US9889773B2 (en) 2016-04-04 2018-02-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Anthropomorphic upper seatback
USD812706S1 (en) * 2015-03-25 2018-03-13 Arcus Hunting, Llc Air movement visualization device
US9914378B1 (en) 2016-12-16 2018-03-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Decorative and functional upper seatback closeout assembly
US9994135B2 (en) 2016-03-30 2018-06-12 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Independent cushion thigh support
US10046682B2 (en) 2015-08-03 2018-08-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Back cushion module for a vehicle seating assembly
US10046683B2 (en) 2014-01-23 2018-08-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Suspension seat back and cushion system having an inner suspension panel
US10058184B1 (en) * 2015-09-15 2018-08-28 Jacob Philemon Back support system
US10065546B2 (en) 2014-04-02 2018-09-04 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Vehicle seating assembly with manual independent thigh supports
US20180344060A1 (en) * 2017-06-02 2018-12-06 GAONHEAL Co., Ltd. Easy washable functional pillow
US10166895B2 (en) 2016-06-09 2019-01-01 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seatback comfort carrier
US10166894B2 (en) 2016-06-09 2019-01-01 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seatback comfort carrier
US10220737B2 (en) 2016-04-01 2019-03-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Kinematic back panel
US10239431B2 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-03-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Cross-tube attachment hook features for modular assembly and support
US10279714B2 (en) 2016-08-26 2019-05-07 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seating assembly with climate control features
US10286818B2 (en) 2016-03-16 2019-05-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Dual suspension seating assembly
US10286824B2 (en) 2016-08-24 2019-05-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Spreader plate load distribution
US10351030B2 (en) * 2017-09-14 2019-07-16 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seat trim retention system with asymmetrical retention force
US10369905B2 (en) 2014-10-03 2019-08-06 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Tuned flexible support member and flexible suspension features for comfort carriers
US10377279B2 (en) 2016-06-09 2019-08-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Integrated decking arm support feature
US10391910B2 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-08-27 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Modular assembly cross-tube attachment tab designs and functions
IT201800005110A1 (en) * 2018-05-07 2019-11-07 Aversano Marco Morolli MULTIFUNCTION MAT FOR FREE BODY TRAINING
CN110639168A (en) * 2019-08-30 2020-01-03 徐州力诺健康科技有限公司 Sit-up device with clean protection pad for fitness equipment
US10596936B2 (en) 2017-05-04 2020-03-24 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Self-retaining elastic strap for vent blower attachment to a back carrier
US20210030155A1 (en) * 2019-07-31 2021-02-04 Ninghai Rabbit Automotive Products Co., Ltd. Massage Cushion Structure Hung on Seat Back
CN112603105A (en) * 2020-12-16 2021-04-06 上海大学 Seat air bag path adjusting system and method adapting to human body sitting posture
US11479253B1 (en) * 2019-07-30 2022-10-25 Matthew E. Jenkins Motorized vehicle incorporating exercise apparatus

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Cited By (90)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6065166A (en) * 1996-10-17 2000-05-23 O.R. Comfort, Llc Surgical support cushion apparatus and method
WO2000015159A1 (en) * 1998-09-10 2000-03-23 Bowers Shan L Back support and method of use thereof
US6327724B1 (en) 1999-02-02 2001-12-11 O.R. Comfort, Llc Inflatable positioning aids for operating room
US6510574B2 (en) 1999-02-02 2003-01-28 O. R. Comfort, Llc Inflatable positioning aids for operating room
US6357066B1 (en) * 2000-02-16 2002-03-19 Carla Terzian Pierce Patient support device
US20010029344A1 (en) * 2000-03-01 2001-10-11 Blomberg Patrick J. Back support
US6496994B1 (en) 2000-07-11 2002-12-24 Richard Omel Back support
US7048703B2 (en) * 2001-12-21 2006-05-23 Oakworks, Inc. Support device
US20030139695A1 (en) * 2001-12-21 2003-07-24 Oakworks, Inc. Support device
US7059678B1 (en) 2003-01-30 2006-06-13 Taylor Alan R Portable orthopedic support device
US6820938B2 (en) 2003-03-10 2004-11-23 Biomedical Systems Corporation Tail bone cushion
US7437789B2 (en) * 2003-04-25 2008-10-21 Thompson Harlyn J Lumbar back support device
US20070039102A1 (en) * 2003-04-25 2007-02-22 Thompson Harlyn J Lumbar back support device
US20040211004A1 (en) * 2003-04-25 2004-10-28 Thompson Harlyn J. Lumbar back support device
US7055199B2 (en) 2003-04-25 2006-06-06 Thompson Harlyn J Lumbar back support device
GB2406058A (en) * 2003-09-19 2005-03-23 Eirona Regina Gauci Air assisted mobility device
GB2406058B (en) * 2003-09-19 2005-12-07 Eirona Regina Gauci Air assisted mobility device
US6848134B1 (en) * 2003-10-15 2005-02-01 David Schenck Backboard with removable pad
US7063677B1 (en) * 2003-10-27 2006-06-20 Daggett Jonathan G Pneumatic lumbar support and method for developing improved lower back range of motion
US7458918B1 (en) 2003-11-21 2008-12-02 Fitness Quest Inc. Back support for an exercise device
US20060016003A1 (en) * 2004-07-20 2006-01-26 Goodway Industrial (H.K.) Ltd. Hybrid mattress
US7120950B2 (en) * 2004-07-20 2006-10-17 Goodway Industrial (H.K.) Ltd. Hybrid mattress
US20060016012A1 (en) * 2004-07-21 2006-01-26 Xiaoguang Liu Device and method to prevent deep vein thrombosis
US7225486B2 (en) * 2005-01-10 2007-06-05 Jackson Iii Avery M Therapeutic seat cushion
US20060150338A1 (en) * 2005-01-10 2006-07-13 Jackson Avery M Iii Therapeutic seat cushion
US20060217248A1 (en) * 2005-03-25 2006-09-28 Michele Diseati Exercise device and method of using same
US7833142B2 (en) * 2005-07-19 2010-11-16 Karp Shaun A Methods and apparatus for testing abdominal strength and exercising abdominal muscles
US20080214372A1 (en) * 2005-07-19 2008-09-04 Karp Shaun A Methods and Apparatus for Testing Abdominal Strength and Exercising Abdominal Muscles
WO2007048160A1 (en) * 2005-10-25 2007-05-03 Claudia Aigner Exercise device
US20070267905A1 (en) * 2006-02-03 2007-11-22 Sava Cvek Post-Assembly Tension Adjustment in Elastomeric Material Applications
US7517024B2 (en) * 2006-02-03 2009-04-14 Sava Cvek Post-assembly tension adjustment in elastomeric material applications
WO2007105959A1 (en) * 2006-03-15 2007-09-20 Jurek Buchacz Chair with adjustable back support
US9486654B1 (en) * 2008-11-12 2016-11-08 Buckingham Manufacturing Company, Inc. Reconfigurable, modular ergonomic sit harness or saddle
CN102325480A (en) * 2009-02-20 2012-01-18 舒适概念私人有限公司 The Pneumatic seat cushion system
WO2010094072A1 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-08-26 Comfort Concepts Pty Limited Pneumatic seat cushion system
US8510884B2 (en) 2009-02-20 2013-08-20 Comfort Concepts Pty Limited Pneumatic seat cushion system
US8667632B2 (en) 2009-02-20 2014-03-11 Comfort Concepts Pty Limited Pneumatic seat cushion system
CN102325480B (en) * 2009-02-20 2015-03-25 舒适概念私人有限公司 Pneumatic seat cushion system
US20100257674A1 (en) * 2009-04-13 2010-10-14 Douglas Beall Method for positioning a human subject for radiological imaging, surgery or minimally invasive procedures using an inflatable contoured pillow
US20110224059A1 (en) * 2010-03-10 2011-09-15 William Joseph Crawley Stability exercise machine
US20130046343A1 (en) * 2011-08-16 2013-02-21 Julie Adamski Spinal Mobilization Device
US9125787B2 (en) 2011-09-30 2015-09-08 Covidien Lp Compression garment having a foam layer
US9756956B1 (en) * 2011-11-16 2017-09-12 Hannu Pekkinen Mattress with inflatable lumbar support
US9873360B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2018-01-23 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flexible seatback system
US9873362B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2018-01-23 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flexible seatback system
US9649962B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2017-05-16 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Independent cushion extension and thigh support
US9707873B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2017-07-18 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flexible seatback system
US9707870B2 (en) 2013-01-24 2017-07-18 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Flexible seatback system
US9402779B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2016-08-02 Covidien Lp Compression garment with perspiration relief
US9033416B1 (en) * 2013-09-28 2015-05-19 Paul John Vanderhorst Vertical back support health-enhancing device
US9198515B1 (en) * 2013-09-28 2015-12-01 Paul John Vanderhorst Vertical back support health-enhancing device
US10351031B2 (en) 2013-10-25 2019-07-16 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Manual lumbar pump assembly
US9505322B2 (en) * 2013-10-25 2016-11-29 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Manual lumbar pump assembly
US9845035B2 (en) 2013-10-25 2017-12-19 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Manual lumbar pump assembly
US20150115678A1 (en) * 2013-10-25 2015-04-30 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Manual lumbar pump assembly
US10046683B2 (en) 2014-01-23 2018-08-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Suspension seat back and cushion system having an inner suspension panel
US10065546B2 (en) 2014-04-02 2018-09-04 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Vehicle seating assembly with manual independent thigh supports
US10369905B2 (en) 2014-10-03 2019-08-06 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Tuned flexible support member and flexible suspension features for comfort carriers
USD812706S1 (en) * 2015-03-25 2018-03-13 Arcus Hunting, Llc Air movement visualization device
US20160361217A1 (en) * 2015-06-15 2016-12-15 Allen Medical Systems, Inc. Spine table positioner pad with pressure sensing and cooling features
US10709630B2 (en) * 2015-06-15 2020-07-14 Allen Medical Systems, Inc. Spine table positioner pad with pressure sensing and cooling features
US10046682B2 (en) 2015-08-03 2018-08-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Back cushion module for a vehicle seating assembly
US10058184B1 (en) * 2015-09-15 2018-08-28 Jacob Philemon Back support system
US20170150819A1 (en) * 2015-11-30 2017-06-01 Seating Direct International Limited Cushion
US10646044B2 (en) * 2015-11-30 2020-05-12 Seating Direct International Limited Cushion
US9849817B2 (en) 2016-03-16 2017-12-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Composite seat structure
US10286818B2 (en) 2016-03-16 2019-05-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Dual suspension seating assembly
US9994135B2 (en) 2016-03-30 2018-06-12 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Independent cushion thigh support
US10220737B2 (en) 2016-04-01 2019-03-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Kinematic back panel
US9889773B2 (en) 2016-04-04 2018-02-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Anthropomorphic upper seatback
US9802512B1 (en) 2016-04-12 2017-10-31 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Torsion spring bushing
US9845029B1 (en) 2016-06-06 2017-12-19 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Passive conformal seat with hybrid air/liquid cells
US9849856B1 (en) 2016-06-07 2017-12-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Side airbag energy management system
US9834166B1 (en) 2016-06-07 2017-12-05 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Side airbag energy management system
US10166894B2 (en) 2016-06-09 2019-01-01 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seatback comfort carrier
US10166895B2 (en) 2016-06-09 2019-01-01 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seatback comfort carrier
US10377279B2 (en) 2016-06-09 2019-08-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Integrated decking arm support feature
US10286824B2 (en) 2016-08-24 2019-05-14 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Spreader plate load distribution
US10279714B2 (en) 2016-08-26 2019-05-07 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seating assembly with climate control features
US10239431B2 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-03-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Cross-tube attachment hook features for modular assembly and support
US10391910B2 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-08-27 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Modular assembly cross-tube attachment tab designs and functions
US9914378B1 (en) 2016-12-16 2018-03-13 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Decorative and functional upper seatback closeout assembly
US10596936B2 (en) 2017-05-04 2020-03-24 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Self-retaining elastic strap for vent blower attachment to a back carrier
US20180344060A1 (en) * 2017-06-02 2018-12-06 GAONHEAL Co., Ltd. Easy washable functional pillow
US10351030B2 (en) * 2017-09-14 2019-07-16 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Seat trim retention system with asymmetrical retention force
IT201800005110A1 (en) * 2018-05-07 2019-11-07 Aversano Marco Morolli MULTIFUNCTION MAT FOR FREE BODY TRAINING
US11479253B1 (en) * 2019-07-30 2022-10-25 Matthew E. Jenkins Motorized vehicle incorporating exercise apparatus
US20210030155A1 (en) * 2019-07-31 2021-02-04 Ninghai Rabbit Automotive Products Co., Ltd. Massage Cushion Structure Hung on Seat Back
CN110639168A (en) * 2019-08-30 2020-01-03 徐州力诺健康科技有限公司 Sit-up device with clean protection pad for fitness equipment
CN112603105A (en) * 2020-12-16 2021-04-06 上海大学 Seat air bag path adjusting system and method adapting to human body sitting posture

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